Input devices are the methods through which the user physically interacts with the computer and/or program. Examples include keyboard, mouse, touch screen and microphone.

4.5.1. Are input devices appropriate? The input device of choice should be the most reliable device that will accomplish a given instructional task. For example, if a mouse will accurately indicate an area to palpate, then it should be used instead of a touch screen. Touch screens are not as reliable and their parallax problem may frustrate a novice user.

4.5.2. Do keyboard equivalents for other input methods exist? Voice, touch screen, and other forms of input should have keyboard equivalents whenever possible.

4.5.3. Is input efficient? Input should be designed to keep user effort efficient. For example, when entering a patient's diagnosis in a simulation as you type the diagnosis, users should see the first word in an alphabetized list beginning with the letter(s) already entered.

4.5.4. Do input methods prevent or detect errors? Common errors should be anticipated and prevented. Extensive pilot testing can assist to identify common errors and thus prevent them.